The manufacturers state that they do not know why K-Y is so soothing, but suggest:
“Possibly the cooling action of the combination, and the effect of the 4% boric acid contained, are factors that enter. Be all that as it may, the fact certainly remains that oftentimes, after other local measures fail, ‘K-Y’ lubricating Jelly gives relief.”
Elsewhere it is claimed to be germicidal, and to give relief in other conditions, thus:
“Diabetic and uremic irritations, not only of the genitalia, but of other parts, have been found fully as amenable as pruritus vulvae to the soothing influence of ‘K-Y’ Lubricating Jelly, especially if the previous application is removed with water every time a new one is put on.”
The foregoing citations are obviously intended largely for the public, and make it plain that “K-Y” Jelly is not in the class of nonmedical and harmless external applications; on the contrary, these claims tend to create the impression that the spread of measles and scarlet fever can be prevented in the stage of desquamation. To place such statements in the hands of the patient supported by the tacit endorsement of a prescription is to create a false and dangerous sense of security and to lead to a failure to observe other and more important means of preventing dissemination of these diseases.
The Council held K-Y Lubricating Jelly in conflict with Rules 1, 4, 6 and 10, and authorized publication of this report.—(From The Journal A. M. A., Sept. 29, 1917.)